High Myopia: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment Options - Ophthalmology

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High myopia, also known as pathological myopia, is a condition characterized by excessive elongation of the eyeball, leading to severe refractive error. Individuals with high myopia, like yourself with approximately -1150 diopters, are at an increased risk for various ocular complications, including retinal degeneration, retinal tears, and even retinal detachment. Given your recent examination indicating retinal degeneration, it is crucial to monitor your condition closely.


Symptoms and Risks
1. Symptoms: High myopia can present with various symptoms, including blurred vision, difficulty seeing at a distance, and visual disturbances such as "visual snow," which you described as experiencing television-like noise in your vision. This phenomenon can be associated with a condition known as visual snow syndrome, which is characterized by persistent visual disturbances. While the exact cause of visual snow is not well understood, it is thought to be related to how the brain processes visual information.

2. Risks: The risks associated with high myopia include:
- Retinal Degeneration: As the eye elongates, the retina can become thinner and more susceptible to tears and detachments.

- Myopic Maculopathy: This involves changes in the macula, the central part of the retina, which can lead to significant vision loss.

- Glaucoma: High myopia increases the risk of developing glaucoma, a condition that can damage the optic nerve.

- Cataracts: Individuals with high myopia may also experience cataracts at an earlier age.


Management and Treatment Options
1. Regular Eye Exams: It is essential to have regular comprehensive eye examinations with an ophthalmologist who specializes in high myopia. This will help monitor any changes in your retina and overall eye health.

2. Protective Measures:
- Sunglasses: Wear UV-protective sunglasses to shield your eyes from harmful UV rays, which can exacerbate retinal damage.

- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy diet rich in antioxidants (like vitamins C and E) and omega-3 fatty acids, which may support retinal health. Regular exercise and avoiding smoking can also be beneficial.

3. Vision Correction: Depending on your specific needs, options for vision correction may include:
- Glasses or Contact Lenses: These are the most common methods for correcting refractive errors.

- Refractive Surgery: Procedures like LASIK or PRK may be considered, but they are typically not recommended for high myopia due to the increased risk of complications.

4. Surgical Options for Retinal Issues: If retinal degeneration progresses or if there are signs of retinal tears, surgical interventions such as laser photocoagulation or vitrectomy may be necessary to prevent retinal detachment.


Addressing Your Concerns
- Visual Disturbances: The "rain" symptom you mentioned may not be directly related to high myopia but could be indicative of other underlying issues. It is essential to discuss these symptoms with your ophthalmologist, as they may require further investigation.


- Stability of Myopia: While some individuals experience stabilization of myopia in adulthood, others may continue to see changes. Regular monitoring is crucial to assess whether your prescription is stable and to evaluate the health of your retina.

- Retinal Degeneration and Tears: Not all retinal degeneration leads to tears, but the risk increases with the severity of the degeneration. Laser treatment can help seal off areas of degeneration and may reduce the risk of future complications.

In conclusion, managing high myopia involves a proactive approach to eye health, regular monitoring, and addressing any symptoms or concerns with your healthcare provider. It is understandable to feel anxious about your condition, but staying informed and engaged with your eye care can help mitigate risks and maintain your vision. Always consult with your ophthalmologist regarding any new symptoms or changes in your vision.